Module manager: Dr Thomas Moore
Email: T.A.Moore@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
PHYS 3421 Magentism in Condensed Matter
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Magnetic materials underpin much of modern technology and thus our everyday lives, from electric motors to data storage, sensors and computing. An understanding of magnetism in condensed matter requires knowledge in several areas of physics to be brought together, including classical and quantum mechanics, statistical physics and condensed matter physics. The first half of this course focuses on the theory of ferromagnetism, while the second half uncovers the physics behind the applications, such as permanent magnets and spin electronics.
Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of:
1. Exchange interaction
2. Magnetic anisotropy
3. Demagnetising field
4. Magnetic domains and simple micromagnetics
5. Magnetotransport
6. Current issues in thin film magnetism, magnetic heterostructures and devices
Problem modelling and solving
Introduction to basic concepts. Measurements of magnetisation. Exchange and Heisenberg Hamiltonian. antisymmetric exchange. Magnetisation vs. temperature: Molecular field, Stoner model, magnons, critical regime. Anisotropy and Superparamagnetism. Stoner-Wohlfarth particles. Origins of anisotropy. Exchange anisotropy. Magnetostatic self-energy and demagnetising factors. Shape anisotropy. Domain structures and domain walls. Simple micromagnetics. Magnetization dynamics. Permanent magnets and energy products. Low-dimensional ordering, perpendicular anisotropy. Spin-dependent band structures - spin-dependent transport. Anisotropic, giant, and tunnelling magnetoresistance. Spin torque. Magnetotransport measurements. Spin-valves, magnetic tunnel junctions, read-write heads and MRAM.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 24 | 1 | 24 |
| Private study hours | 126 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 24 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Formative courseworks - Workshops and regular homeworks.
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2.0 Hrs 30 Mins | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 100 | |
Students will have to complete an in-person exam at the end of the module. This will take place during the examinations period at the end of the semester and will be time bound.
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 4/29/2024
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team